We had the good fortune of connecting with Sheila Waits and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sheila, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
There have been times since I started back painting that I have been not sure about my ability. I see so many amazing artists. But this is what I have learned from that way of thinking. God has given each and everyone of us gifts. We are all unique in how He created us, no one is alike. Comparing ourselves to others is not what we are supposed to do. I have learned to be at peace with who I am with a knowledge of I will improve the more I in gage in the process. The most important thing is I love art, and I love to paint all of God’s creation. It’s endless! It gives me peace and joy to paint , draw and to just be creative. Giving up to me is just not an option. I glen from better artist, there is so much more to learn. I don’t think any art is bad art!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I loved to draw and paint as a child, but I stopped as a teen. Life just took me on a different journey. I have always had a desire to create. If it was decorating the home, fashion, jewelry, crafts I was most happy doing these things. It wasn’t until much later in life, in my 60’s that I finally decided to paint again. It’s been about two years now and I am really enjoying it. Sometimes I think , oh Lord where could I be now if I had never stopped all those years. I would say to those who are young and have the desire to not put it down. Make room for what you love to do in your life. I really have not established a one certain thing I love to paint. I love nature, I love painting angels. I like to try everything from acrylic, watercolor, pencil and pours. Most of the time I just get something on my heart and I try to paint it. I hope my art displays beauty and the love I have for Gods creation.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
I live in Phoenix Arizona. I believe the first place I would take them would be the Grand Canyon! There is nothing more amazing and breathtaking as looking at this site. It is definitely one of God’s greatest wonders. I would like to take them to Sedona. The red mountains there are stunning. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, great gift shops too! One of my favorites and was my Mom and Dads favorite was Tombstone. There is so great history here of the wild Wild West days. Williams is another small but unique town. They have a train you can take there to the Grand Canyon. Flagstaff is another beautiful area. Especially if they come out in the winter months. Great snow and skiing. Phoenix is rich in places to go from desert to snow.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Matt Tommy has a group called Christian Artist and Creative Art Challenge There are so many amazing artists in this group. It’s so inspiring to see their work and hear their stories. Matt also does mentoring chats, very helpful.

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